Hadith #2543

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of giving with haste and benefit, and if one is unable to give, then it should be done with politeness and apology. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its profound implications in light of the Quran.

The word (mu'ajjalan) "معجلاً" in the Hadith means to give expeditiously or promptly. It highlights the urgency and swiftness with which one should give, indicating that delaying or procrastinating in acts of charity is discouraged. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the virtues of hastening in good deeds. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:148),

So hasten to good deeds as much as you can.

The word (muhanna'an) "مهنّأً" in the Hadith means to give beneficially or in a way that brings benefit to the recipient. It highlights the importance of giving in a manner that truly helps and improves the situation of the recipient. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the concept of (excellence) "ihsan" in our actions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

Furthermore, the Hadith states that if one is unable to give, it should be done with (ijmaal) "إجمال", which means politeness or courtesy. This highlights the importance of maintaining good manners and treating others with respect, even when we are unable to fulfill their requests or expectations. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the virtues of kindness and good conduct. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:53),

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

The Hadith also mentions (i'thar) "إعذار", which means apology or excuse. This highlights the importance of acknowledging our limitations and expressing regret when we are unable to fulfill someone's request. It encourages us to maintain humility and empathy in our interactions with others. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the virtues of humility and seeking forgiveness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-A'raf (7:23),

They said, 'Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves, and if You do not forgive us and have mercy upon us, we will surely be among the losers.'

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see the wisdom and guidance it provides in our daily lives. It teaches us the importance of giving promptly and beneficially, as well as the significance of maintaining good manners and expressing regret when we are unable to fulfill someone's request. By embodying these teachings, we can cultivate a spirit of generosity, kindness, and humility, which are essential qualities for every Muslim.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives and may He bless us with the virtues of promptness, benefit, politeness, and apology. May He guide us to be generous and compassionate towards others, following the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) who was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. Ameen.